Just two months ago, I wrote a blog lamenting the fact that I’d never found a Sears “Monterey.” Last night in our Facebook group, I learned that Jennifer Hoover-Vogel found one of these very rare Sears kit homes in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania!
Now as you feast your eyes upon this kit-house beauty, you’ll note it’s had some siding installed over the stucco (sad face), and the windows have been removed (oh dear), however, it’s still standing and there’s something to be said for that.
Many thanks to Jennifer for finding this treasure!
And thanks to the unknown (but delightful, generous and lovely) Realtor who posted these images when the house was for sale.
To read read about the Alhambra (a kissing cousin), click here.
To join our Facebook group, click here.
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Who doesn't love a Sears Monterey? (1924 Sears Modern Homes catalog)
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Same footprint as the Sears Alhambra, but slightly different exterior.
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Upstairs is a little different from the Alhambra, too!
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Exterior: Beautiful. Interior: Good.
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That is one sweet little house. Check out the parapet on the porch, dormer and staircase wing.
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Well, they put a hurting on that front porch, and they replaced the windows with something rather, uh, less than ideal, but other than that, it's a fine house.
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To a flat-lander tourist such as myself, that stonework is stunning.
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That is a fancy floor. I wonder if the home's original owner had a background in flooring, and did his own "upgrade" while the house was under construction.
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Another view of that beautiful floor and lovely fireplace.
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The kitchen's had a real hurting put on it, but from what I've read, there are people in the world that like this kind of thing. Honestly, I wish I was one of them. It sure would simplify my life. I am intrigued by the sign on top of the cabinet that says "Home." Is that in case someone forgets where they are, and start thinking that they're at a neighbor's house? It's a puzzle.
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Another view of the kitchen. I'm highly allergic to stainless steel, beige tile floors, French provincial cabinetry and granite countertops, so that explains why this kitchen would be difficult for me to visit.
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There's that "home" sign again. Other than that, great dining room.
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The bathroom is more my style. That double-apron porcelain tub makes me swoon.
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The bedrooms in this house seem unusually spacious.
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See that step to the left? It's on the floor-plan and is an access to the attic.
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Even the back of the house is lovely!
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Wait, is that a koi pond? Okay, sign me up. I want the house. And the pond.
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A comparison of the two images. Fun house, isn't it?
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Many thanks to Jennifer for finding this treasure!
And thanks to the unknown (but delightful, generous and lovely) Realtor who posted these images.
To read read about the Alhambra (a kissing cousin), click here.
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How FUN is that? Is it everything you thought it would be?
Can you post an updated list of unseen models in the facebook group?
I’ll check my “vault” and see if I can help cross off a house or two.
Rosemary, just read your December 3 blog post – Something for “My Wish List.”
I now remember perusing it at the time you published, and it surely is what made me go “Hmmmmm” about this house and ultimately make the connection!
Thanks for doing what you do and enabling us “enthusiasts” to help you in your endeavor!
Very nice find!
Hi I’m Mary and I live in the 1932 Maplewood #3302 “Honor Bilt” Home by Sears Roebuck! I’m so interested in these beautiful homes.
I live on the East End of Long Island, NY. There are lots of the Honor Bilt Sears Homes in my area and wondered if you have ever been out here!? I feel you would love seeing what we have here.
I love reading about these home especially as you have befores and afters.
I’m also very dismayed by some makeovers.
I have left my house as origional as much as possible, with just a few updates. I’ve got pictures!!!
Please contact me as I would love to get your input!
I can’t stop reading your blog!
One amazing house after another– with excellent and witty commentary! So glad to find it. Thanks!
It looks like the kitchen stairs to the 2nd floor are gone, leaving room for a pantry.
I have always thought that the double staircase was one of the best features of the Alhambra/Monterey.
Also the Sunroom, which is also gone, opening up the living room a bit more. I suspect that the Sunroom is a casualty in many surviving Alhambras.
That altered portico really destroys much of the character, but at least it survives in the other exterior embellishments. What a rare treat to actually see the interior!
That second little set of steps to the the main stairway are known as “Good Morning Stairs.” I love that phrase, I love the concept and I love that look!